Click here to read the analysis of the Cats defenders
Click here to read the analysis of the Cats midfielder
Dawson Simpson
The old adage that ruckman take longer to develop than any other position is probably true and if the six games we saw from Dawson Simpson last year say anything than we should be ready for a big spike in his development. 2014 is set up for Simpson to make his own. With best mate Trent West off to Brisbane, Simpson along with Hamish McIntosh, has the ability to make the number one ruck spot their own. With stats like 88 hitouts over two weeks, a knack of getting down and dirty and a body that can’t be moved, Simpson could be the ruck presence the Cats have been crying out for since Brad Ottens called it a day.
Potential position – ruck
Other position – N/A
Hamish McIntosh
The Cats are hopeful, based on his outstanding preseason, that Hamish McIntosh’s injury woes are behind him and he’s ready to prove them right for recruiting him. McIntosh has even been awarded a trainer of the week award this past fortnight! With fellow number one ruck, Dawson Simpson, also coming off very few games in the past couple of seasons the Cats have the ability to use both where needed and to make sure neither is run into the ground. The benefit of McIntosh is his ability to go forwarded. With 59 goals from 107 games, McIntosh will provide a handy forward target for the Cats when resting from the ruck.
Potential position – ruck
Other position – full forward
Mark Blicavs
No one, repeat no one envisaged Mark Blicavs having the 2013 that he did. After just a handful of VFL games in 2012, Blicavs stepped up for the Cats in a massive way. Playing the back up ruck role, Blicavs combined his running ability, smarts and skill to provide a headache for many teams. His knack of being the get out of jail kick from the backline was also priceless for the Cats. The big question is what will Blicavs bring to the table in 2014? Can he take his game to a new level? Cats fans will have plenty of opportunity to see these question answered as Blicavs massive skill set will be called upon a lot.
Potential position – ruck
Other position – wing, half forward
